Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Support and Prevention in Adolescence

August 2025 in “ Geburtshilfe und Frauenheilkunde ”

Katja Wechsung, Uta Neumann, Nicole Balint, Susanna Wiegand

PCOS polycystic ovary syndrome hyperandrogenemia menstrual disorders insulin resistance obesity hypertension

TLDR Adolescents with PCOS need tailored diagnosis and support, including lifestyle advice and managing related health issues.

The document discusses the challenges of diagnosing PCOS in adolescents, noting that symptoms can be physiological for up to eight years after menarche, making adult diagnostic criteria only partially applicable. It highlights the introduction of a provisional diagnosis of "PCOS at risk" for adolescents who partially meet the criteria, with a reevaluation recommended three and eight years post-menarche. The 2023 international PCOS guideline and a new German S2k guideline provide standardized criteria for diagnosing hyperandrogenemia and menstrual disorders in this age group. The paper emphasizes the importance of providing information, lifestyle advice, and addressing comorbidities like obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension as part of the therapeutic approach for adolescents with PCOS.

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Research cited in this study

7 / 7 results

research Prevalence and Accurate Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Adolescents Across World Regions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

40 citations , September 2024 in “European Journal of Endocrinology”

PCOS affects about 6.3% of teens globally, and ongoing checks are advised for those with irregular cycles or high androgen levels.

research Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

292 citations , April 2024 in “Nature Reviews Disease Primers”

Early diagnosis and treatment of PCOS are crucial to reduce health risks and costs.

research Comprehensive Transition of Care for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome from Adolescence to Adulthood

6 citations , March 2024 in “The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health”

research Guidelines of Care for the Management of Acne Vulgaris

5 citations , January 2024 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology”

Use benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, antibiotics, and isotretinoin for acne, and combine treatments for better results.

Recommendations From The 2023 International Evidence-Based Guideline For The Assessment And Management Of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

research Recommendations From The 2023 International Evidence-Based Guideline For The Assessment And Management Of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

6 citations , August 2023 in “European journal of endocrinology”

The 2023 guideline advises a detailed approach for PCOS, focusing on early detection, lifestyle and medical treatments, and managing health risks.

research Non-Hormonal Treatment Options for Regulation of Menstrual Cycle in Adolescents with PCOS

2 citations , December 2022 in “Journal of Clinical Medicine”

Medications for glucose metabolism and weight control, combined therapy options, and herbal medicines may help regulate menstrual cycle in adolescents with PCOS.

research Criteria for Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome During Adolescence: Literature Review

42 citations , August 2022 in “Diagnostics”

Diagnose PCOS in teens using irregular periods and high androgen levels, not ultrasound.